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Mongolian blue spots - Symptom

Alternative Names

Mongolian spots; Congenital dermal melanocytosis; Dermal melanocytosis

Symptoms:

Mongolian spots are non-cancerous skin markings and are not associated with disease. The markings may cover a large area of back.

Occasionally, Mongolian blue spots are mistaken for bruises, which can raise a question about possible child abuse. It is important to recognize that Mongolian blue spots are birthmarks, NOT bruises.

Symptoms include:

  • Blue or blue-gray spots on the back, buttocks, base of spine, shouders, and other body areas
  • Flat area with irregular shape and unclear edges
  • Normal skin texture

Signs and tests:

No tests is needed. Your doctor can diagnose this condition by looking at the skin.

  • Reviewed last on: 4/16/2007
  • Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.